What is James Carville's Net Worth?
James Carville is a notable political consultant and author with a net worth of $10 million. This figure is a combined net worth with his wife, political strategist Mary Matalin. Carville is recognized for his work as the lead strategist for Bill Clinton's successful 1992 presidential campaign. Besides his political achievements, Carville frequently appears on cable news programs and podcasts to share his extensive expertise.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born Chester James Carville Jr. on October 25, 1944, in Fort Benning, Georgia, Carville is the eldest of eight children. His parents, James and Lucille, had a significant influence on his early life. Carville attended Ascension Catholic High School in Donaldsonville and later enrolled at Louisiana State University (LSU). Despite facing academic challenges, which led to his temporary dismissal from LSU, he served two years in the US Marine Corps. Carville returned to LSU, earning a BS in general studies and later a JD in 1973. He began his professional journey as a lawyer in Baton Rouge and also worked at the political consulting firm Weill-Strother.
Political Consulting in the 80s
Carville's entry into political consulting includes his role as executive assistant to East Baton Rouge Parish mayor-president Pat Screen. His big break came in 1984 while managing Texas state legislator Lloyd Doggett's campaign for the Texas Senate seat. Though Doggett lost the general election, Carville's career gained momentum. In 1986, he successfully managed Bob Casey Sr.'s campaign, leading to a gubernatorial win in Pennsylvania. The following year, he played a pivotal role in Wallace Wilkinson's successful gubernatorial campaign in Kentucky.
Political Consulting in the 90s
Carville's career thrived in the 90s. He helped Zell Miller win Georgia's gubernatorial race in 1990. Although he faced a setback with Jim Mattox's campaign, he rebounded by guiding Harris Wofford to a Senate victory against US Attorney General Dick Thornburgh. In 1992 and early 1993, despite a heavy investment, his candidate Richard Katz didn't win the Los Angeles mayoral election.
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Bill Clinton's Presidential Campaign
Carville's most significant achievement came in 1992 when he was the lead strategist for Bill Clinton's presidential campaign. His strategy focused on populism, change, and critical issues like the economy and healthcare. Clinton's victory over incumbent George H. W. Bush brought Carville immense recognition. In 1993, Carville received the Campaign District Manager of the Year award from the American Association of Political Consultants, and his role was highlighted in the Oscar-nominated documentary "The War Room."
International Political Career
Carville's expertise extended beyond US borders. In the 90s, he collaborated with candidates like UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, Brazilian presidential candidate Fernando Henrique Cardoso, and Israeli prime ministerial candidate Ehud Barak. He continued his international consulting in the 2000s, advising candidates in Bolivia, Venezuela, Afghanistan, and Colombia, among others.
Other American Political Work
In addition to his international ventures, Carville continued working with US presidential candidates. He was an informal advisor for John Kerry's 2004 campaign and advised Hillary Clinton during her 2008 run. In the 2020 election, he endorsed Colorado Senator Michael Bennett.
Media Appearances
Carville cohosted CNN's debate program "Crossfire" with Paul Begala from 2002 to 2005. He remained a regular CNN contributor until 2013 before moving to Fox News. In 2006, he ventured into sports radio, cohosting "60/20 Sports" with Luke Russert. Carville's media presence also includes commercials for major brands like Heineken, American Express, and Coca-Cola, and film appearances in titles such as "Old School" and "The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford."
Personal Life
In 1993, Carville married fellow political consultant Mary Matalin, known for her work on George H. W. Bush's campaign. The couple has two daughters and resides in Virginia.
